VIOTIA DISTRICT
In ancient Orchomenos, there are preserved ruins of temples, the vaulted tomb of Minyus from the Mycenaean era and a theater of the 4th century. The Venetian castle on the Akondio hill is of interest, as well as the Byzantine church of Skripos. The flora of the area is very interesting. The Springs of the Three Graces, which flow from Mount Yfanteio, combine grace and traditions, while a multitude of stories connect the area with one of the most widespread myths of the chthonic element, water, with airs and fairies.
Editor: Fotini Anastasopoulou
The ancient theater of Orchomenos is located inside the fortified acropolis, on the small slope between the vaulted tomb and the Byzantine church of Skripos. Its construction is chronologically placed at the end of the 4th century. BC, i.e. at the beginning of the Hellenistic period. The hollow of the theater is oriented towards the east, it had at least twelve rows of pews made of ashlar and was single, without a cross. The stairs between the seats were made of limestone. Around the orchestra, the seats of the presidency with embossed decoration and backrests are preserved. The scene complex has not been excavated. The proscenium had a colonnade of Doric semi-columns on the facade and according to an inscription it was dedicated to the Graces. The main stage building originally had doors on its facade. Later, in the Roman period, it was constructed with more ancient building material, a raised brick logeum. At the same time, the scenic building acquired a monumental facade. In this theater were held the Charitisia, musical, theatrical, rhetorical and poetic competitions in honor of the Charites, the most important deities of Orchomenos.
Editor: Fotini Anastasopoulou
